Backyard fires in Lakewood must comply with Ohio Fire Code 307.4 recreational fire rules: 3 feet diameter max, 25 feet from structures, clean wood only, and constant adult supervision with a hose or extinguisher. Lakewood Fire Department may order any fire extinguished if smoke creates a neighbor nuisance, which is common given small city lots.
Lakewood has not adopted stricter setbacks than the state code but enforces the nuisance smoke rule aggressively due to the dense residential pattern. Portable outdoor fireplaces and manufactured fire pits must still follow the 25-foot setback unless the manufacturer label and UL listing allows closer placement; even then, 15 feet is the practical minimum. Fires must be completely extinguished before the attendant leaves. Chimineas with spark screens are allowed.
Nuisance smoke: extinguishment order plus possible 150 dollar citation. Unattended fire: misdemeanor citation. Fires causing damage: full civil liability.
See how other cities in Cuyahoga County handle backyard fires.
See how Lakewood's backyard fires rules stack up against other locations.
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